Contingent Materials Engineer

Honda South Carolina Manufacturing; Santa Clarita (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Honda is seeking a Materials Engineer to identify material specifications for components and analyze parts for failure in support of high‑performance engineering projects. The role includes developing raw material specs and providing data for design and qualification.

You will conduct metallurgical testing, prepare samples, and generate standard reports while maintaining lab equipment and safety standards. Collaborative, detail‑oriented work is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering or related field.
• Experience reading engineering drawings and codes.
• Hands-on lab work with materials testing and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Identify material specifications and support component manufacturing.
• Analyze parts for failure diagnosis in high‑performance projects.
• Prepare samples and reports detailing metallurgical findings.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and safety practices.
• Collaborate with teams to solve material issues.

Skills

Materials Engineering

Metallurgical testing

Engineering drawings

Microsoft Office

Lab safety

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

B.S. in Materials Engineering

Tools

Microscopes

Metallurgical equipment

Job description

What Makes a Honda, Is Who Makes a Honda

Honda has a clear vision for the future, and it’s a joyful one. We are looking for individuals with the skills, courage, persistence, and dreams that will help us reach our future-focused goals.

At our core is innovation. Honda is constantly innovating and developing solutions to drive our business with record success. We strive to be a company that serves as a source of "power" that supports people around the world who are trying to do things based on their own initiative and that helps people expand their own potential. To this end, Honda strives to realize "the joy and freedom of mobility" by developing new technologies and an innovative approach to achieve a "zero environmental footprint."

We are looking for qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, continuous improvement values, and a strong work ethic to join our team.

If your goals and values align with Honda’s, we want you to join our team to Bring the Future!

Job Purpose

The purpose of this job is to identify and provide material specifications for component manufacturing and analyze parts for failure diagnosis in support of HRC’s high performance engineering projects. Position will be responsible for raw material specification development and updates, manufacturing support, problem resolution, identification of materials and process needs, including generating data required for design, analysis, and qualification as related to advance materials and processes.

Key Accountabilities

• Responsible for raw material specification development and updates, manufacturing support, problem resolution, identification of materials and process needs, including generating data required for design, analysis, and qualification as related to advance materials and processes.
• Performs laboratory analysis on engine components using equipment for which the personnel have been trained.
• Prepares metallurgical samples for failure analysis investigation, including specimen cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing and etching.
• Prepare standard reports on metallurgical findings and conclusions on failed components and assist in recommending appropriate action to correct or resolve issues.
• Maintain laboratory and analytical equipment used in the facility.
• Conducts microscopic, macroscopic examinations, and other tests on metallic and non-metallic samples.
• Performs other duties as directed.

Qualifications, Experience, And Skills

• Minimum 3-5 years of Materials Engineering experience. Extensive hands‑on experience with internal combustion race engines and related electronic and mechanical systems, a plus. Perform work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and standard codes.
• Knowledge of material specifications, and material testing procedures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong developed skills and techniques in Testing and Analysis.
• Ability to accurately apply engineering principles and contribute to HRC’s high performance engineering projects.
• Must show a willingness to learn safe handling of laboratory equipment and machinery.
• Working ability in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to follow and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Ability to follow safety practices and recognizing hazards.
• Comfortable to learn handling of chemicals and corrosive substances.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally.
• Comfortable working in team‑based environment.
• Ability to recognize problems or issues and either take initiative to resolve them or seek appropriate help.
• Ability to read, understand and follow instructions, procedures, and other required documentation.
• Must be able to lift or carry parts or other items weighing up to 20 pounds throughout the laboratory.
• Should be capable of using hands to operate equipment.
• Must be able to read and use different types of microscopes in performance of duties.

Honda is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor.